Hi! My name is Katie (Gallon Smash) Kommer. I recently completed the John Muir Trail, and am already hungering to find my way back to my truest, stinkiest self. On the trail, I'm known as gallon smash for my exceptional ability to fall headfirst into a bush or a river, and in the "real world" I'm known as the recent grad who's trying her best, okay?
Posts
Best of Southern California Backpacking and Day Hiking
I've lived in Southern California for five years and still feel like I'm scratching the surface of available adventure around me. The beaches are
The USPS is Under Attack and Thru-Hikers Need to Care
Unless you've been living in the woods without cell service for the last month (jealous), you've heard something about the USPS. Amid a worldwide
Enlightened Equipment Rev-HOLE-ation Quilt Review
If only I could travel back in time and smack myself upside the head for ever thinking I "sleep too cold" for a quilt. Because now that I've gotten
How Color Outside Empowers Women of Color Through Outdoor Adventure
"If you can do the freaking John Muir Trail, you can do this." I've had this thought an immeasurable amount of times in the nine months since I stood
Why Sun Umbrellas are Becoming Thru-Hikers’ Favorite Piece of Gear
"I pulled out my umbrella and held it aloft. There was no tangible difference in temperature under my portable shade, but the intensity of the sun
How to Plan a Backcountry Trip During a Pandemic
My most recent trip into the High Sierra was one for the books. For three nights, I slept under the summer stars after days filled with granite
Gear Review: Mountain Hardwear Women’s Exposure/2™ Gore-Tex Paclite® Plus Jacket
Mountain Hardwear is upping the ante when it comes to outer shells. Paclite Plus is a new Gore-Tex technology geared toward shedding precious ounces
How Pyles Camp Changes Boys’ Lives Through Wilderness Retreats
Picture the first mountain you climbed. Standing on that summit, the feelings of joy, exhaustion, and confidence can be overwhelming. Accomplishing a
Gear Review: Backcountry Tahoe Sun Hoodie
I've always scoffed at long sleeves in the summer. Yet time and time again, I forget to reapply sunblock and emerge from the mountains with a gnarly
Patricia Cameron on How Colorado Blackpackers is Fighting for Economic Equity Outdoors
From micro aggressive remarks to blatant racism, BIPOC hikers experience the outdoors differently. Knowing this, Colorado Blackpackers is working to